The Effects of Fathers’ Family-of-Origin Experiences on Co-parenting: The Mediating Role of Marital Conflict and Psychological Well-Being

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this research was to investigate how fathers’ individual characteristics and the quality of their marital relationships influence co-parenting. Previous research on fathers’ perceptions of co-parenting has been relatively under-explored. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the direct impact of fathers’ family-of-origin experiences on co-parenting and to examine the indirect effects mediated by marital conflict and fathers’ psychological well-being.Methods: Data were collected from a sample of 250 fathers with preschool-aged children (aged 3 to 5). Fathers completed comprehensive questionnaires assessing their family-of-origin experiences, levels of marital conflict, psychological well-being, and perceptions of co-parenting.Results: The findings revealed several significant relationships. Firstly, fathers’ family-of-origin experiences had a notable direct impact on co-parenting. Secondly, these experiences indirectly influenced co-parenting through the pathway of marital conflict. Thirdly, fathers’ family-of-origin experiences indirectly affected co-parenting through their psychological well-being. Additionally, fathers’ family-of-origin experiences had an indirect impact on co-parenting through sequential pathways involving marital conflict and psychological well-being. Specifically, stronger positive experiences from fathers' family-of-origin were associated with reduced levels of perceived marital conflict, leading to enhanced psychological well-being and more positive perceptions of co-parenting.Conclusion: This study enhances our understanding of the factors influencing co-parenting from the perspective of fathers. The results highlight the importance of interventions aimed at improving fathers’ perceptions of co-parenting, emphasizing reflection on family-of-origin experiences, resolution of marital conflicts, and enhancement of psychological well-being through targeted interventions. By addressing these areas, interventions may effectively promote positive co-parenting dynamics within families and contribute to overall family well-being.